The censor is always quick to justify his function in…
“The censor is always quick to justify his function in terms that are protective of society. But the First Amendment, written in terms that are absolute, deprives the States of any power to pass on the value, the propriety, or the morality of a particular expression.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The First Amendment’s absolute language prevents the government from imposing moral judgments on expression, despite societal pressures.
In simple terms: Free speech cannot be limited by moral standards.
Defend absolute free speech.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- media regulation
- public policy
- education curriculum
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Should any speech be restricted for public safety?
- How to protect society without censoring?
Balancing speech with hate speech concerns remains complex.